Updates on his condition were often provided to fans by his mother (Mom J) or visiting band members. In September 2012, frontman Chino Moreno told KROQ, Los Angeles that Cheng was “one of the strongest” people he knew and that he was “praying that his strength will get him through this.”

Yesterday, (April 15) lead guitarist Stephan Carpenter issued a brief statement on behalf of the band via Deftones’ Facebook page.

“There are so many things I can say, and yet at this moment, none of it matters or compares to the loss everyone feels. There will be a hole in our lives where Chi once was. But that will be filled everyday with all of our love and memories we all have in our heart. He will always be here because of love. It’s time we all give our love and best, and do our best to love. Especially ourselves, Chi would want that for everyone. All our healing will begin with love. I love you, Chi.”